Jose 'Joe' Trevino, a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and proud Vietnam Veteran, passed away on November 5th, 2023, surrounded by his loving wife and daughters at his home in Gleed, Washington. He was 76 years old. Joe was born on November 23rd, 1946, in Edinburg, Texas, to Maria and Lorenzo Trevino.

Joe's education began in Grandview, where he remained enrolled until the 9th grade when he began helping his father support the family as a farmworker. Later, as a proud serviceman, he voluntarily joined the military for the Vietnam War. During basic training, he and a friend, both without high school diplomas, sought guidance from recruiters on qualifying for the Air Force. During this time, the army was the sole branch accepting non-graduates. The recruiters informed them of the requirement to pass a GED test with a score 25% higher than the average graduate, a challenge they met with exceptional success. Joe joined the Air Force, serving as a jet mechanic.

At 15, Joe met the love of his life, Billie, and they were married on June 11th, 1966.

Joe was stationed in Mountain Home, Idaho, where he and Billie began to lay the foundation for their family. Their first child, Ricky, was born in April 1967 but tragically passed away at the age of 2 months due to a heart condition. Despite this heart-wrenching loss, Joe and Billie's bond grew stronger, and they supported each other through the highs and lows of life.

From September 1967 to September 1968, Joe courageously served in Vietnam during the Tet Offensive, displaying unwavering dedication to his duty and country. During his service, he was granted a brief reprieve. He spent his second anniversary with Billie while on R&R in Waikiki, with Hawaii quickly becoming a favorite destination and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Joe's military journey concluded at Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico. He was honorably discharged on December 2nd, 1969. Joe and Billie embarked on a new chapter, packing their belongings into their 1965 Mustang and beginning their return to Washington.

Following his military service, Joe furthered his education, obtaining an Associate's Degree from YVC and a Bachelor's in Sociology from CWU. He made history as the first Hispanic Juvenile Parole Officer to work for the State of Washington, later serving as a Social Service Supervisor for Yakima County DSHS Aging and Adult Services. His profound impact on the community extended to his advisory role on the Governor's Board for Juvenile Parole Services.

After establishing their new life in Yakima, Washington, Joe and Billie were blessed with three children, each bringing their unique joy and love into their lives. Their eldest daughter, Laura Marie, was born in January 1970, followed by their second daughter, Linda Michelle, in April 1975. Their youngest son, Jose 'Joey' Lorenzo, graced their lives with his presence in September 1979.

Upon retirement in the fall of 1997, Joe embraced the opportunity to explore the world alongside his wife. Their adventures became cherished moments in their shared life. Initially hesitant about his wife’s suggestion, Joe's first cruise in May 2000 sparked a lifelong love for exploring the Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii. Together, they journeyed over 20 cruises.

Despite enduring the tragic loss of their sons, Ricky and Joey, Joe remained a pillar of strength for his family. He took immense joy in the love and laughter of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable happiness and pride.

Joe's final days were a testament to his enduring spirit and unwavering love for his family. His passing was a result of health complications stemming from his exposure to Agent Orange during his time in Vietnam.

He is preceded in death by his sons, Ricky and Joey, his parents, Maria and Lorenzo Trevino, and his brothers, Albert and Lorenzo Trevino. Joe is survived by his wife, Billie Trevino. His daughters, Laura Mills and Linda Trevino, his grandchildren, Tyler, Lauralee, Mya, Kyle, Emma, Kaydn, and Jose 'Woogies,' as well as his great-grandchildren, Judah and Mitchell.

Joe's legacy of resilience, sacrifice, and love will continue to resonate within the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to have known him. His memory will forever be cherished, and his impact on the community and his family will never be forgotten.

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